Gavi
ഗവി
A forest ecotourism area on the southern edge of the Periyar reserve, with lakes, cloud forest and cardamom groves, offering jeep safaris and boating.
Gavi lies on the southern edge of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It is run by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation as an ecotourism destination, offering jeep safaris through the forest, boating on the lake, hiking and forest tent accommodation. Visitors often see gaur, deer, lion-tailed macaques and birds, and from higher points you can see Sabarimala. The journey from Kumily over the Varkunnu hill road takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Entry requires registration at a checkpoint, and vehicle numbers are limited, so book in advance through the official channels or a hired car.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–17:00 (checkpoint controls)
Nearby sights
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady)
- Periyar Bamboo Rafting & Jungle Treks
- Vandiperiyar Tea Estates
- Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
- Spice Plantation Tour
- Mudra Cultural Centre
- Parunthumpara
- Kumily Spice Market